The Relationship between Self-Compassion and Music Performance Anxiety among Undergraduate Music Students

Abstract

Music Performance Anxiety (MPA) is a common and complex challenge faced by musicians while performing. Self-Compassion refers to how individuals perceive themselves when facing setbacks or difficulties. Given the increasing emphasis on students’ psychological well-being and performance quality in higher music education, understanding factors that can effectively reduce MPA has become essential for both educators and learners. This study aimed to explore the relationship between Self-Compassion and Music Performance Anxiety among undergraduate music students. Data were collected using the Chinese versions of the Self-Compassion Scale (SCS) and the Kenny Music Performance Anxiety Inventory-Revised (K-MPAI-R) Scale. The findings revealed a significant negative correlation between Self-Compassion and Music Performance Anxiety. In addition, the three negative dimensions of Self-Compassion—Self-Judgment, Over-Identification, and Isolation—were significantly positively correlated with Music Performance Anxiety, with Over-Identification being the strongest. The study identified Self-Kindness and Over-Identification as predictors of Music Performance Anxiety, indicating that these components might help reduce it, although further research is needed. The study also found no significant gender difference in Music Performance Anxiety among undergraduate music students aged 18 to 23. These findings highlight the practical value of integrating self-compassion-based strategies into music education to support students’ emotional regulation and performance outcomes. Future research on Music Performance Anxiety should delve deeper into specific musician subgroups.